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Guide for landlords: Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector

New Electricity Regulations for Landlords


Did you know landlords must have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person, at least every 5 years?


Earlier this year the government released information on their new electrical safety standards in the private rented sector. The new regulations came into force on the 1st June 2020 as an effort towards improving safety in all residential premises, particularly in the private rented sector.


The inspections are to test the ‘fixed’ electrical parts of the property, such as the wiring, socket-outlets, light fittings, and fuse box. However, the regulations do not cover electrical appliances, only the fixed electrical installations.


The inspector will check for:

  • Defective electrical work

  • Overloaded electrical installations

  • Potential electric shock risks and fire hazards

  • Lack of electrical shock preventatives like earthing or bonding

Landlords must comply with the new rules and must make sure the electrical installations in their rented properties are safe. Breaches of the regulations could result in financial penalties of up to £30,000.


You can find out all you need to know about the regulations here.


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